Amnesty International has strongly condemned the demolition of hundreds of shops and shelters at Alaba Rago Market in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State, describing the action as unlawful and a violation of human rights.
According to the human rights group, the demolition was carried out without adequate consultation and only one month into the six-month notice earlier issued to traders. Amnesty International noted that the move showed “deliberate contempt for the rule of law and due process.”
The organisation further stated that the exercise has left hundreds of families homeless and destroyed the livelihoods of thousands of traders who had been operating in the market for decades. It also reported that some residents sustained injuries while others were tear-gassed as they attempted to salvage what was left of their businesses.
“For many residents of Alaba Rago, the market represents home, work, and survival. The violent demolition has robbed them of all three,” Amnesty International said.
The group stressed that international law prohibits forced evictions and the deliberate destruction of property, insisting that the treatment of the traders amounted to inhuman and degrading acts. It demanded that suspected perpetrators be brought to justice as a matter of urgency.
Amnesty International further called on Lagos State authorities to immediately set up a commission of inquiry to investigate the incident and ensure adequate housing and compensation for all affected residents and traders.
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